Police warning as thieves target Derbyshire beauty spot car parks

Police are encouraging motorists to get their security into gear and protect their vehicles from being targeted by thieves.

Safer Neighbourhood officers are urging residents and visitors to ensure that no valuables are left on display in vehicles, especially those parked in popular beauty spot car parks.

Over the last week, police have received a number of reports of vehicles being targeted in rural locations across the Derbyshire Dales, especially those close to Carsington Reservoir.

Sometime between 10am and 2.20pm on Thursday April 9, thieves smashed the rear window of a Mini One which was parked in a car park along Mapleton Lane, Ashbourne. A Samsung Galaxy tablet, two Samsung mobile phones and a leather handbag were stolen from within.

During this time, thieves forced open the door of a Renault Scenic that was parked in the same location. A search of the vehicle was carried out and the fuse box appeared to have been disturbed, however nothing was stolen.

Items including an Apple iPod Touch, Superdry sunglasses and power tools were also stolen following thefts from vehicles in the area. The thefts took place on Bernard Gadsby Close and Cokayne Avenue in Ashbourne, Hurst Rise in Matlock and Hopton, Wirksworth.

Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Andy Wordsworth said: “Please remember, if you leave nothing in, nothing can be taken out so taking simple steps to protect your vehicles can save a lot of distress and can prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

“Thieves will try their luck if they think there is a chance valuables will be left inside, so our advice is to always take your items with you when you can and ensure that no valuables are left on display.

“Make sure that the windows are up and that the vehicle is properly secure before leaving unattended and remove any rings from your windscreen which have been caused by a sat-nav to deter a criminal.”

If you spot anyone acting suspiciously around parked and unattended vehicles, call police straight away on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.